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Accessibility Night at Temple Theaters

Accessibility Night at Temple Theaters

Jan302018

On Friday, February 2, the School of Theatre, Film, and Media Arts will offer additional accessibility accomodations for Waiting for Rain, one of the plays in the MFA Playwriting Rep. ASL interpretation, audio description, sensory friendly seating, and wheelchair accessibility will be available for patrons.

Waiting For Rain, by Mark Costello (MFA '18), explores the difficulties that come with a romantic relationship. With substance abuse, physical disabilities, and many other challenges, Jenna and Ryan are determined to make their love story last. While trying to navigate through their relationship, the couple starts to wonder if they are in their own way. Waiting For Rain explores the harsh truth of how we reject the love we deserve.

Amy Blumberg (MFA ‘18), the director of the play, expressed how important it was to stay true to the characters. With one of the characters having a physical disability, Blumberg was very strategic in her casting. “Our creative team decided that the only way to artistically and ethically bring to life the characters in this new play was to hire an actor who has cerebral palsy,” she said.

When discussing the play she also emphasized the importance of representation extending beyond the stage. Throughout the process, Blumberg and her team have been working with community partners such as the Institute on Disabilities and Art-Reach to ensure that the play is accessible to all. Temple Theaters also contacted Professor Roger Ideishi of the Colllege of Public Health, a leading proponent of inclusive performances.

While many services will be provided to accommodate a diverse audience on February 2, 2018, wheelchair accessible seating will be provided for the entire run of the MFA Playwriting Rep. ASL interpretation will also be provided for the Saturday, February 3 performance of Bobby James and Eight Minutes, Twenty Seconds.

In addition to substance abuse and disability, the story also touches on sensitive topics including suicide and depression.